Bradley Hospital Parenting Guide:
Teenage Parties

Your Responsibilities as the Parent of the Host

Sometimesjust a little help can prevent short-term problems from becoming more serious.

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Plan in advance.
Check party plans with your teenager and know who's on the guest list to curb the "open party" situation. It is not unusual for strangers to show up if you haven't made your rules clear.

Set a time limit.
Set a definite start and end time-not too long. Consider daytime parties as an alternative to evening ones, or plan a seasonal activity such as swimming or skating to give some positive focus to the party.

Agree to rules ahead of time.
Rules might include no drugs, alcohol and smoking; no leaving and then returning to the party; no gate-crashers; lights be left on; some rooms in your house off-limits.

Understand your role as a parent.
The responsible adult at a teenager's party is visible and aware. Remember that it is illegal to serve alcohol to minors. You are legally responsible for anything that may happen to a minor who has taken drugs or alcohol in your home.

Invite another parent or couple.
Other adults are company for you during a long evening and can be of help if there are problems. Also, if parents have driven teenagers to your house, you might consider inviting them in to meet you, however briefly.